Step back in time more than 75 years at the Shell History Museum in Roxana, Illinois. Trace the history of Shell Wood River and neighboring communities as you look at early photographs and the many items of interest, including vintage gasoline pumps, glass motor oil bottles Shell product advertising and city maps.

The Wood River Heritage Council has worked diligently to preserve the town's past at the Wood River Museum and Visitors Center. It is here that you will find exhibits on the Wood River massacre of 1814, Olde Downtown, the Flood of 1915, the World's largest swimming pool, and the impact of Standard Oil on this growing community. Hours Thursday - Saturday, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

If there is one thing that you can always count on, it's the exceptional family-style meal at Wittmond's in Brussels. Just a quick ride will bring you to this hometown mainstay where pulling up a chair at the table reminds you of a visit to Grandma's house. Once you're nice and cozy in your seat, get ready to eat! They start with noodle soup, a relish platter, sausage and hot rolls. Next, they bring out the homemade fried chicken, roast beef, dumplings, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn and green beans. It's all served family-style, and they'll keep bringing it out until you say you're finally full. If you still have a little room left, order up a slice of homemade pie. With just one visit to Wittmond's, you'll be adding it to your trip itinerary every time you visit the Alton region. Hours: Friday - Monday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Take a ride along the many bicycle trails around Alton with a bike from Wild Trak Bikes. The shop features new and used bicycles including road bikes, mountain bikes, comfort bikes and children's bikes. Service is also available for all bikes makes and models. Hours: T - F 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., S 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Step back in time to simpler days at White Tales Lodge. Nestled in the beautiful and remote hills of Calhoun County, the lodge has a warm and inviting atmosphere and is surrounded by some of the most unforgettable landscapes in the Midwest. Enjoy hunting packages in season or design your own weekend getaway with the family. Outdoor cooking facilities are available as well as an indoor kitchen, dining room, game room and sleeping accommodations.

Take a step back in time with a visit to this diner which was opened in the 1940's in Jerseyville. Customers come from throughout the bi-state region just for the huge servings of onion rings, which are hand-breaded and fried to perfection. The regulars are friendly and sure to recommend the best menu items for those who don't know what to order. Don't leave before trying one of their homemade pies! Hours: T - S 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. Su 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Get away from it all and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature under the shade of the catalpa trees in this two bedroom cabin in scenic Calhoun County. The Watkins Place is private and secluded with access to the hiking trails at the McCully Heritage Project. Amenities include a full kitchen, coffee maker, refrigerator, all kitchen utensils, towels and linens and board games. There is no TV reception, internet or phone service.

A-little-bit-of-this and a-little-bit-of-that can be found at this quaint antique and collectible shop on Main Street in Grafton. Glassware, pottery, collectible dolls, beer signs and more can be found at Walker's. New items arrive each week. Hours: Daily 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Discover what life was like in historic Elsah when it was founded in 1853 by James Semple. The museum, housed in the Elsah Village Hall built in 1887, showcases former residents, architectural styles used in constructing buildings, and implements used by residents in the mid-1800s. The museum is open Saturday and Sundays only from 1 - 4 p.m.

Travel back in time with us to the Village of Elsah. The entire village of Elsah is on the National Registry of Historic Places. This village, with a population of around one hundred people, is often referred to as the "village where time stood still." Visitors to Elsah can escape back to the Americana of the early 1800s with quiet streets and 19th century stone homes. This “picture perfect” village nestled in the valley is a perfect place for photographers – amateur and professional – anxious to capture a glimpse of the past.

Learn about local, Underground Railroad sites on a shuttle tour with J.E. Robinson Tours and the Alton Regional CVB on the last Saturday of each month (10 a.m. to noon). The two-hour guided shuttle tours will stop at some of the sites that were part of the Underground Railroad system including the Old Rock House, Rocky Fork Church and more. Alton’s riverfront location along the Mighty Mississippi played a vital role in helping slaves make connections to the freedom of the northern states. Buried beneath the streets of Alton and Godfrey, remnants of this period in history still exist.

Near the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers lies a veritable bird-watching utopia. Visitors to Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge can expect to see a variety of migratory birds, from waterfowl and warblers to Acadian Flycatchers and American Bald Eagles. In fact, Two Rivers is the winter home to one the largest Bald Eagle populations in the continental United States.

This site is on the Granite City Canal, near the Lock and Dam on the Mississippi River. Tri City Port is a duty-free foreign port, as well as a loading facility for farm and other products being barged on the river.

Located in the heart of Grafton, Tree Tops is perfect for a family getaway or a stay-cation with your besties. With a queen sized bed and two twin beds, this cozy cottage is designed for four. Tree Tops boasts breathtaking views of the Mighty Mississippi from the private deck and shared patio below. Tree Tops is a second level guest house equipped with all the bells and whistles you've come to expect from a Loading Dock property.

Family owned for more than 50 years, Tony's is located in Alton on Third Street. Known for their mouth-watering pepperloin steaks, the family recipe has been a crowd pleaser for years. Homemade pastas and family recipes make for a memorable meal. Tony's offers the best of both worlds with a formal dining room, perfect for a romantic meal or to celebrate a special occasion. The Third Street Cafe entrance features a sports bar atmosphere perfect for kicking back to enjoy a slice of fresh secret recipe pizza, a juicy half-pound steakburger or a basket of wings. From casual family dining to a cozy meal together, Tony's is your place!

Start your day with a home cooked breakfast at Tony's Ranch House Restaurant and Bar located in Godfrey. And, if you like, come back at night for live entertainment. Tony's is a family-style diner with that classic laid-back style. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and desserts are served. There is also a separate full bar. Restaurant Hours: Monday - Saturday, 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. and Sunday. 6 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Antiques, crafts and collectibles are the main stays of this mini mall. Consignments are also welcomed. Many booths are available featuring a wide array of items. Also look for the collectible books on hand. Hours: Tuesday - Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Thursday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Take a step back in time at Tinner's Anvil Antiques. Primitive antiques are among the thousands of items housed in this warehouse located in historic downtown Alton. From furniture to antique gardening tools, maps to quilts, there is something for every antique hunter around. Open F - S 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Su Noon - 5 p.m.

Ideally placed in the historic Downtown Alton antique district, the Tiffany Inn is walking distance from shops, restaurants and the casino, with beautiful views of the Mississippi River and Clark Bridge. Located above the Alton Stained Glass Works shop, the inn has three elegant rooms decorated with lovely stained glass and antiques. Amenities include: private baths, air conditioning, mini refrigerators and coffeemakers.

Imagine a life boat made out of a mint chip fudge brownie, covered in strawberry ice cream and topped with chocolate sauce, whipped cream and a cherry. That's The Whole Scoop's newest version of their signature sundae called the "Life Boat". And it's not just sweet treats at The Whole Scoop. From secret recipe marinated chicken in the Chipotle Chicken Wrap to Mom's Recipe Chili, great homemade eats abound. Located in historic downtown Grafton, The Whole Scoop is a great place to stop during a day of shopping and river watching. Hours: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily.

The Stone Cottage, located about 2 miles from the Loading Dock, is a recently remodeled and beautifully appointed home that was built in 1840 and is Grafton's oldest original structure. It features a full kitchen and three bedrooms with beds to sleep eight. The charming modern decor is warm and inviting; the property is perfect for a group getaway.

Relax in this riverfront cottage located a block from Main Street in downtown Grafton. This unique, art-filled guest house is just a stone's throw from the Mississippi River. The flower-filled back deck faces the river and the historic Boatworks building, which houses the monthly Riverside Flea Market. A restful atmosphere and overstuffed comfy furniture will entice you to read by the fireplace or paint a picture at the artist's easel. A full kitchen allows for snacks of cooking in style. This cottage is designed for two. Free Wi-fi.

Relax, reflect and unwind in this private guest house that is a turn-of-the-century cottage completely restored with modern amenities. Located high above the confluence of the Mississippi & Illinois Rivers, it offers a quiet retreat with a spectacular view, yet it is only one block from village shops, marina, restaurants, bike trails and the scenic byway.

Looking for a relaxing vacation destination? Look no further! This beautiful family and pet-friendly loft features hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, two bedrooms, open gathering area with full kitchen, dining area, large living area, washer and dryer, front and rear balconies with a BBQ grill and can accommodate up to 8 people! After all...who wouldn't want to stay on top of an ice cream shop?

We're proud to be considered the region's best outdoor bar and grill, with the best scenic view, at the end of the best scenic drive. Our majestic view is not to be missed. Watch the river roll by while listening to live entertainment. Our full menu features something for everyone...don't miss our famous Dock Salsa! Be sure to stop by the fourth weekend of the month March - October for the Riverside Flea Market featuring over 60 local vendors. Let us host your next party! We cater events of all sizes...from reunions and receptions to birthdays and bridal showers. Keep the fun going at one of our four Loading Dock Guest Houses, perfect for an intimate getaway or an all night get-together.

Stay at one of the oldest guest houses in Grafton! This guest house boasts historic charm and modern amenities. Located in the center of downtown Grafton, it's within easy walking distance to restaurants, shops, wineries, and the riverfront.

This upscale cottage was designed with comfort and fun in mind. Perfect for families or singles. The Guest House sleeps up to 6 with one king size bed and 4 twin size bunks. A full kitchen and large living room make for a relaxing stay. The Fish Market is small pet friendly with a fenced-in side garden.

This upscale cottage was designed with comfort and fun in mind. Perfect for families or singles, the Guest House sleeps up to 6 with one king size bed and four twin size bunks. A full kitchen and large living room makes for a most relaxing stay. Two televisions and wireless internet access keep you in touch. The Guest House is small-pet friendly with a fenced-in side garden.

This is the place where biker's dreams come true. The showroom is packed with new Harley Davidson motorcycles, licensed apparel, jewelry, gifts, and a wide range of motorcycle parts and accessories. There is also a large inventory of used motorcycles and a complete service department on site. This is the region's premier Harley Davidson store! Open M - F 9 a.m. - 7 p.m., S 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Su 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Noted in Midwest Living magazine as "a riverside retreat for the romantic," Tara Point Inn is known for its incredible accommodations and breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. Atop the palisades bluffs above Grafton, visitors can choose either the main inn or a secluded cozy cabin escape to what some call the most pleasantly memorable getaway experiences in the Midwest.

Get the rest you need after a long day on the road at our Super 8 Jerseyville hotel. Located on Illinois State Route 109, less than one hour from St. Louis, MO, our hotel makes it easy to enjoy small-town charms with convenient access to big-city excitement. Enjoy queen size beds, recliners in most rooms, satellite TV, free local calls, jacuzzi bathtubs in selected rooms.

Super 8 Alton hotel lets you make the most of your time on the road. Located on Illinois Highway 3 close to Route 67 and Interstates 55 and 270, our Alton, Illinois, hotel is just 30 miles from downtown St. Louis and convenient to popular area attractions, including the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway.

A bit off the beaten path, Straight Home Bar and Grill is well worth the effort to find it. The daily lunch specials are out of the ordinary and can run the gamut from crab alfredo entrees to chicken and dumplings to barbeque pork steak. There is no breakfast despite the early opening. But steak entrees are featured every Friday and Saturday. Hours: Monday - Thursday, 8:30 a.m. - 1 a.m., Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 2 a.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. - 2 a.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. - 2 a.m.

Stone Bridge Valley Art Center includes an art studio offering open studio time and classes, an art gallery with featured artists, and a gallery boutique with art by local and regional artists available for purchase.

Chances are if you are looking for that hard to find antique piece, State Street Antiques/Jim's Attic in Jerseyville may have it. This warehouse sized store is crammed full with a treasure trove of merchandise from antique children's toys to furniture, glassware and more. Open Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, Noon - 4 p.m.

Enjoy the river by boarding the Spirit of Peoria sightseeing cruise. The cruise will travel the Mississippi River and people will have a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty found here. There are sightseeing, lunch and dinner cruises.

Nice, casual, family-oriented diner with the great food you expect from smaller restaurants. Known for their chicken and dumplings, cabbage rolls and burgers as well as their juicy, large chicken wings. Open daily from 5:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Live music venue and pub with full bar. Two stages and an extensive sound system accommodates a variety of live music and entertainment ranging from original songwriters, local talent and regional acts. Open F & S 4 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

A book-lover's paradise, Second Reading Book Shop in historic downtown Alton, features rare, unique and first-edition books in all genres. Lightly used modern novels are also available. Local author and store proprietor John Dunphey offers writing workshops in addition to hosting occasional special guests including area authors, musicians and speakers. Hours: Monday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Senior Services Plus’ School House Grill offers a selection including a daily special, a soup and salad bar, as well as a variety of grill options. The School House Grill is an option for any age and is open to the public. Come join us for breakfast or lunch. Daily lunch specials include our own chef's creations and "GET FIT" meal items.

Extending 20 miles from Alton to Pere Marquette State Park, the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail runs parallel to the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway along IL Route 100, as well as the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. The route is completely paved and takes cyclists through the towns of Elsah and Grafton. Comfort stations are available at Piasa Park, Clifton Terrace Park, Elsah, Grafton Visitors Center, Grafton Harbor public restroom and Pere Marquette State Park. This is a great ride for cyclist of all ages, including families looking for a free day of fun!

A beautiful sculpture of Sacagawea graces the campus of Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey, Illinois. The piece was crafted by Glenna Goodacre who also designed the image on the Sacajewea $1 coin.

Welcome to S & S Sandwich Shop of Alton - North Alton’s only independently owned sandwich shop. Our goal is to provide fresh, quality, seasonal food fare at a great value. Every attempt is made to use only local products in our menu items. We currently serve sandwiches, soups and salads prepared by our chefs. Our daily specials change often to exploit the best of each season.

Located near the convergence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers is Grafton - a little town steeped in history. In the heart of that history is the Ruebel Hotel. The Ruebel was built in 1884, caught fire in 1912 and was rebuilt and completely renovated in 1997. The Ruebel Hotel has a magnificently restored bar from the 1904 Worlds Fair in St. Louis. The Ruebel Saloon offers excellent food and a great variety of beer and wines.

Cross the creek to experience our rustic cabin in the woods. Nestled among the tree-covered bluffs is where you’ll find our little piece of nature. A getaway without phones, television, cable or internet… truly a place to get away from it all. Located just 1.2 miles north of Grafton on the Illinois Route 100, the guest house features two bedrooms and comfortably accommodates four people. Kitchen includes appliances and cooking supplies. Outdoors you’ll find a beautiful creek, running spring, fire pit and BBQ grill.

Wood fired thin crust St. Louis-style pizza, burgers, a dozen different appetizers and a full dinner menu aren't the only things that bring customers to Roper's Regal Beagle. Dine and play games; watch all your favorite sports games on the big screen and other TVs and after hours, listen to the live bands and dance, but make sure you take the kids home first. Hours: Monday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 2 a.m., Friday, 11 a.m. - 3 a.m. and Saturday, 7 a.m. - 3 a.m.

In 1918, Alton became the famous birthplace of Robert Wadlow, "The Gentle Giant." Born a normal eight pounds in 1918, Wadlow suffered from a pituitary gland problem. He was almost nine feet tall and 500 pounds when he died of complications from a foot infection at age 22. He is noted in the Guinness Book of World Records as the tallest man alive. A life-sized statue on College Avenue lifts visitors' heads in amazement. The Alton Museum of History and Art have devoted an entire room to Wadlow, including his third-grade desk and oversized grade school ring.

Located in a historic downtown Alton building, these suites are private, secure and first class in a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Fully furnished one and two bedroom units. Kitchen, VCR, digital cable, washer and dryer, free local calls. Located within walking distance to local restaurants, clubs and shopping.

You won't want to miss this fabulous flea market on the river! Over 50 dealers with all types of goods, antiques, glassware, tools, candles, furniture and good old-fashioned junk! Located in the historic boatworks building located right on the Mississippi River. It is held the fourth weekend of the month of March through October.

Escape to this newly built home in Grafton, Illinois. The Riverfront Guest House is 14 feet off the ground & overlooks the Mississippi River. Relax and enjoy the river traffic on the open deck or the attached 3 season room! This home offers two guestrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, 42" flat screen TV, BBQ Grill, outdoor furniture on the deck and covered parking.

Riverbend Billiards provides 10,000 sq. ft. of entertainment. There is great food and beverages for everyone, plus a full bar for our over 21 crowd. You’ll find 15 7-ft. bar tables and two 9-ft. Gold Crowns. Dart machines and video games are available for the kids. Riverbend Billiards sells a wide variety of pool cues, cases and miscellaneous pool supplies as well as a large selection of soft tip darts and dart supplies.

The River View Guest House has it all! Enjoy the comforts of home with amenities that include a kitchenette, family room and a game area with a dart board & a Foosball table. The sofa sleeper and two guest rooms sleeps six people comfortably. This guest house offers a patio and fire pit for outdoor relaxation.

We invite you to stay and experience one of Grafton's newest guesthouses, River Port. You can lounge on the deck furniture on the wrap around porch and enjoy a view of the river, or relax inside the house, enjoying the nautical decor, with a stress free get-away. River Port is just a walk away from the shopping, wineries, restaurants and all that Grafton has to offer!

Ravanelli's is a family restaurant known for their pressure fried chicken and great Italian food. They have a huge menu with generous portions, and their food is made with only the freshest ingredients.

Combine gourmet burgers with a sharp bar atmosphere and you will have the Pump House Bar and Grill. The signature Pumpjack Burger is a great "go-to" burger with pepper jack cheese, onion jam, tomato jam and banana peppers. Sides are as fresh as the burgers and sandwiches. Hours: Daily 11 a.m. - 10 a.m. Bar is open until 2 a.m.

Take a trip to Italy with the homemade treats of Princivalli's Cafe. This a great spot for a lunch or dinner with a vew of the river and classic decor, right down to the red and white check tablecloths. Bring the family and share a slice of some of the best pizza in town. Enjoy traditional Italian favorites like homemade pizza, the signature house sub, parmesan chicken, a variety of pasta dishes and much more! The atmosphere is welcoming, the service is fast and friendly, and the food is out of this world!

After the Civil War, Confederate shipbuilder Joe Minch was looking for a fresh start. He made his way back to the Rockbridge area and traded his building expertise for a set of tools. That first project of building a barn set into motion a new trend in barn design. Joe placed round windows, now know as portholes, in the barn. Travel through Greene County today to view the highest concentration of Porthole Barns in the country.

Eagle watch in style with binoculars from Piasa Photo. This full service camera shop offers binoculars for rent for the avid bird watcher as well as a complete line of camera equipment for the amateur and professional photographer. Hours: M-F 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., S 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Located on the edge of Alton, Piasa Park is an attractive stop for motorists, picnickers and bicyclists. The park is set at the base of the giant Piasa Bird mural that is painted on the side of a huge bluff. A large granite arrowhead tells the story of the Piasa Bird, which, according to legend, Chief Ouatoga and his 20 warriors killed with poison darts.

The locals call it one of the best kept secrets in Wood River. Phil's Bar and Grill features a steakhouse-quality pepper loin, which is a hit with customers. Sandwiches, barbeque, seafood, cheese steaks, fish and chips and hamburgers are also on the menu. This family-friendly establishment is open Monday - Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

At 8,000 acres, Pere Marquette State Park is the largest state park in Illinois. Go hiking on wooded trails, biking along scenic bluffs, fishing and boating on the Illinois River, or horseback riding through the forest. The park is also known for its guided fall color drives and eagle-watching tours in the winter. The rustic stone-and-timber Pere Marquette Lodge makes a great base for exploring the area.

As a centerpeice of Pere Marquette State Park, the lodge and restaurant are an attraction for visitors from miles around. Visitors can spend a day at the park and explore the Great Room of the lodge, dine in the restaurant or even spend a night in a cozy lodge room or cabin. The centerpeice of the rustic timber 1930s Great Room is the 700 ton stone fireplace and life-size chess set. The Great Rooms beckons visitors to pull up a chair and a glass of wine with a view of the Illinois River. The Lodge restaurant is known for its family-style chicken dinner and season Sunday brunch buffets. Spend the afternoon or a weekend for an unforgettable experience.

This is a shop dedicated to the preservation of the art of quilting. From its 1800's reproduction quilting fabric available for sale to sharing the craftsmanship of quilting with customers, keeping the spark of this craft alive is the life force behind this cozy, friendly shop. Heirloom quilt patterns also available. Hours: Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Every day, trained bakers craft and bake loaves of bread from scratch, using the best ingredients to ensure the highest quality breads. Panera Bread understands that great bread makes great meals, from made-to-order sandwiches to tossed-to-order salads and soup served in bread bowls.